The next few days passed like a strange dream.
Nova found herself slipping deeper into the folds of the mansion's mystery. Jericho had invited her back twice once for dinner, once for a stroll in the moonlit garden. And though their conversations were clipped and guarded, there was always something simmering underneath. An invisible pull. But Nova wasn't just drawn to him. She was suspicious too.
The whispers she had overheard about the necklace and Jericho's deception played on her mind. She couldn't forget the way the guards had spoken like she was a pawn in something much bigger than she understood.
Still, she returned. Every time. Maybe it was to find out the truth. Maybe it was to see him again.
Maybe both. That evening, Jericho sent another car for her. No explanations. The ride was silent as always, the driver stiff and unreadable. When she arrived, Carter greeted her at the gate with the usual formality, then ushered her through the winding halls of the palace.
His Highness is expecting you in the east garden," Carter said with a faint smile. "He's in a... thoughtful mood.
Nova stepped into the garden and immediately understood why. The moon hung low over the treetops, casting a gentle silver glow on everything it touched. The garden smelled of night-blooming roses and dew.
And there he was Jericho.
Standing alone by the fountain, one hand in his pocket, the other holding a black velvet pouch.
You came, he said softly when he noticed her.
Nova approached cautiously. You called.
A ghost of a smirk tugged at his lips. I suppose I did. She tilted her head. Why?
He hesitated.
Because I wanted to give you something.
He held out the velvet pouch. Nova raised a brow. Is this... another necklace? He chuckled. No. This one's different. Open it.
Nova took the pouch, opened it, and gasped. Inside was a small orb shimmering blue, like a frozen drop of sky. It pulsed faintly in her palm.
What is it?
Something rare. From my homeland, he said. It senses energy. And... protects from certain types of danger. I figured you might need it. Nova stared at the orb, then at him.
And why would you think I'm in danger? He looked away. Call it a hunch. Nova closed her fist around the orb. What aren't you telling me, Jericho?
The air tightened. Jericho met her eyes. You're smart. I know you've already figured out that I'm not who I pretend to be.
Nova held her breath. Then who are you really? Jericho turned and began to walk. Come with me. There's something you should see. He led her down a cobblestone path she hadn't noticed before, deeper into the garden.
Eventually, they arrived at a wrought-iron gate, covered in ivy. He pulled out a key, unlocked it, and pushed the gate open. They stepped into a hidden courtyard surrounded by marble statues. At the center stood an ancient structure like a mini shrine. And inside it? A glowing mirror. Nova stepped closer, mesmerized. This is called the Veil Mirror, Jericho said. Only members of my bloodline can pass through it.
Her brows knitted. Pass through?
He nodded. To another world.
Nova laughed softly, almost nervously. You're joking. I wish I were. He faced her.
I come from a realm called Auroria. And so do my brothers. Nova stared at him, waiting for the punchline. But none came.
This isn't a prank, is it? He shook his head. Then why are you telling me this now?
Jericho hesitated. Because if you stay any longer in my life, Nova... you'll be pulled into a war you never asked for.
Nova looked at the glowing mirror again. Her heart raced. Her mind spun.
She felt like she was standing on the edge of something massive.
Something she could never turn away from again.The moment Nova stepped out of the luxurious dining hall, a gust of cold evening air kissed her cheeks. Her mind was still spinning from everything she had heard Jericho's cryptic words, the suspicious conversation from the hallway. She had more questions than answers now. But one thing was certain: she couldn't let her guard down. As she walked across the marble corridor, a voice called out behind her.
Miss Nova.
She turned sharply, eyes narrowing. A young servant, barely older than herself, bowed slightly. The young master asked that I show you the East Wing gardens. He thought you might enjoy the view.
Nova hesitated. Was this a test? A distraction? Or just a harmless invitation? Lead the way, she said cautiously. They stepped outside into a stone path that curved into a lush garden, illuminated with glowing vines and floating crystal lanterns. Everything shimmered in soft gold and lavender hues. The air smelled like wild jasmine and mint.
Wow, Nova whispered.
The servant smiled faintly and excused himself, leaving her alone with the enchantment of the moment. Nova walked slowly, trailing her fingers along the petals of a strange violet flower that emitted a faint humming sound. She found a bench under a silver tree and sat, taking a deep breath. The silence here was different peaceful, not eerie like the palace hallways.
Until she heard a twig snap.
She turned sharply, alert. From behind a hedge emerged Jericho, still in the black silk shirt but now with the top buttons undone. The moonlight clung to his cheekbones, and his expression was unreadable.
You're not good at hiding, Nova said, her tone neutral. He gave a slow smile. And you're not good at staying away. She scoffed and looked away. "What do you want? Another round of cryptic one-liners?"
No. I wanted to apologize. Nova blinked. That was unexpected.
Jericho walked over and stood in front of her. I'm not used to people like you. People who... challenge me. Is that your version of a compliment?
Maybe. He sat beside her, but not too close. I know I've been secretive. And I know it's made you curious and angry. You have every right to be.
Nova crossed her arms, watching his profile as he stared at the garden. You told me I reminded you of someone. But you didn't say who.
Jericho took a moment, then answered, She was someone I lost. A long time ago. But something about you, your eyes, your spirit it brought her back. And it scared me. Do you always push away things that scare you? He looked at her, his eyes darker now. Only the things I know I don't deserve.
Nova felt something stir in her chest, and it made her uneasy. Jericho leaned forward slightly. There's something else you should know. But not tonight. Not here.
Why not?
He paused. Because once I tell you, everything changes.
A silence followed, heavy with things unspoken. Nova looked away. Then maybe I don't want to know. Jericho reached into his pocket and pulled out a small item. He opened his palm, it was a pendant, circular and delicate, with an iridescent gem in the center.
What's that?
A key, he replied. To something very old. Something dangerous. Nova's brows furrowed. Jericho gently placed it into her hand. Keep it. For now. If anything happens to me, use it. You'll know what to do.
Before she could ask more, he stood. Come. I'll have them take you home.
Nova looked down at the pendant in her hand, her heartbeat loud in her ears. She had walked into this world chasing curiosity and pride. But now, she was in the middle of something far bigger, far stranger than she'd ever imagined. And there was no going back. Nova hadn't realized she was holding her breath until she stepped outside the palace's side door, the cool night air hitting her flushed face like a splash of icy water. The scent of silver roses still lingered faintly in her nostrils, haunting her like the voices she had just overheard. Jericho's words from earlier kept playing in her mind on a loop.
You remind me of someone I once knew...
And then the whispers
Jericho shouldn't have gotten attached.
Her fingers trembled slightly as she rubbed her arms, trying to steady herself. She didn't want to believe it, but every gut feeling inside her told her that she was being pulled into something dangerous. Something not entirely human. She walked further into the garden, needing a moment alone. The moonlight spilled over the marble statues and glistening pond. It was breathtaking. But she didn't trust the beauty anymore.
Not after the conversation she'd overheard. Nova, a voice called from behind. She turned around, half-startled. It was Klaus, Jericho's brother. You shouldn't be out here alone, he said, hands tucked in the pockets of his tailored slacks.
Nova narrowed her eyes. Why? Afraid I might overhear more secrets?
He chuckled, amused. "You're sharp. That's going to be a problem." So you're not even denying it? That there's something going on here beyond the expensive decor and arrogant smiles? Klaus tilted his head, the moonlight casting shadows across his face. Let's just say, you're not from our world. And some things... might be difficult for you to understand.
Try me, she challenged. He took a step closer. Are you sure you want to know the truth? Because once you step into it, there's no coming back. I already stepped into it the moment I walked into that club, she snapped. The moment your brother looked at me like he knew me. Klaus sighed and looked up at the stars. He does know you. In a way. But it's not my place to explain it. Just... be careful, Nova. There are forces at play that are much older and more powerful than you think.
He gave her one last glance before walking off into the garden shadows, leaving her breathless and cold. Back inside the palace, Jericho sat in the study, the necklace still in his hand. His thoughts were not of Nova now, but of Auroria. Of his fiancee. Of the lie he had told.
The necklace he gave Nova had once belonged to his betrothed, a powerful gift from her father, enchanted with traces of her bloodline. Losing it would be considered treason in Auroria. Giving it away? Madness.
He had told his fiancée, Princess Calista, that it had been lost during the mission to Earth. She hadn't believed him.
But she hadn't punished him.
Not yet. Ethan entered the room without knocking, as usual. She heard the conversation. Jericho didn't even look up. I figured. Klaus went after her.
Good.
You're going to have to tell her eventually, Jericho. About what we are. About what she is.
Jericho finally looked up, his eyes stormy. No. Not yet.
Ethan scoffed. Keeping secrets from her won't protect her. It will destroy her. You know how this ends. Jericho turned his gaze back to the necklace. The teardrop gem flickered faintly, pulsing like a heartbeat.
She's not ready.
Outside, Nova slowly made her way back to the grand entrance, the night suddenly feeling heavier on her shoulders. Her heels clicked softly against the cobblestones as her thoughts spun like a hurricane. Who was Jericho, really? What was she walking into?
And why did every part of her want to walk right back in?
The hallway stretched on endlessly, or so it felt. Nova followed the maid who'd introduced herself as Mira through the east wing of the palace, past countless doors, arched stained-glass windows, and glittering chandeliers that hung like stars from the ceiling.
Each step echoed with the heavy beat of her heartbeat.
When Jericho had told her she'd be assigned a guest room, she hadn't expected a full palace suite. But it wasn't the opulence that unsettled her, it was the fact that he had insisted she stay the night. That, and what she'd overheard from those men. About the necklace. About the lies.
She clutched her bag closer to her chest.
This way, Lady Nova, Mira said with a small smile as she opened a pair of golden double doors.
The room was massive.
Marble floors, rose-gold wallpaper, a king-sized bed with silk sheets, and a glass balcony that opened to the moonlit gardens below. It was breathtaking.
Nova walked in slowly, eyes scanning everything.
I'll have your bath drawn, Mira said. And refreshments brought up. If you need anything, just pull the string by the bedside.
Thanks, Nova murmured, eyes still drifting.
Mira curtsied and left. Nova exhaled deeply and moved to the balcony. Cool air touched her face as she looked over the garden. That same garden Jericho had shown her. Everything felt surreal.
She didn't want to admit it… but being here made her feel something.
Powerless.
Intrigued.
Hunted.
There was something about Jericho, something haunting and ancient.
She leaned on the balcony rail.
The necklace still hung from her neck, nestled beneath her blouse.
She reached for it, running her fingers along the dark stone.
What was the truth?
Why would Jericho lie about it?
And what were they planning?
Back inside the palace, Jericho sat in a chamber with Ethan and Carter. The fire crackled. She overheard something, Jericho said, his tone low.
You're sure? Ethan asked.
She was acting strange. Distrustful. Her tone shifted. She's suspicious.
We should've erased her memory, Carter said. Like the others.
No, Jericho snapped. She's not like the others, Ethan narrowed his eyes. You're not thinking clearly.
Jericho stood up and walked to the fireplace.
I don't care what Father expects. I'm not letting her go. Carter exchanged glances with Ethan. You gave her the necklace your fiancée gave you, Carter said slowly. if that gets out
It won't.
You lied to Princess Rhoslyn, Jericho.
Jericho turned, eyes glowing faintly in the firelight.
I never asked for that engagement.
But she loves you. She doesn't know me. None of them do. Silence fell. Ethan stood. Then what do you want to do about Nova?
Jericho didn't answer
He simply stared into the flames. Nova's bath was warm, scented with lavender and rose petals. She soaked in the tub, mind racing. She had to find out what the stone meant,
She had to know the truth about Jericho and what exactly she'd gotten herself into.
After changing into the silk nightgown left for her, Nova climbed into bed and stared at the ceiling.
She didn't expect to fall asleep.
But sleep came… heavy and dreamless.
And somewhere deep within the palace, behind locked doors and ancient seals, s
omething stirred.
Something that hadn't been awakened in centuries.
Nova's presence had changed everything.
And there would be no going back now.